Covid-19 Cases in India, New Variants: Latest Updates and Insights

As new variants and waves emerge, COVID-19 continues to be a global health concern. While some countries experience sharp rises in infections, others report mild cases with proactive monitoring. In this article, we will explore the current status of COVID-19 cases in India, the situation in Singapore and provide detailed insights about the virus’s ongoing impact. Stay informed with the latest updates on COVID-19 and learn about precautionary measures to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Recent updates (mid-May 2025) mention an increase in COVID-19 cases in Singapore, with the estimated number of weekly cases jumping considerably (e.g., to 14,200 in early May from 11,100 for the preceding week). Hospitalisations are also up, although ICU cases are minimal. KP.1 and KP.2, sub-lineages of JN.1, are the prevalent variants in Singapore.

COVID-19 Cases in India: Latest Update

India is experiencing a marginal rise in COVID-19 cases, with the number of active cases standing at over 1,000 across the country (specifically 1,009 from 257 last week). Although this represents an increase from previous weeks, health authorities such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) are cautioning vigilance rather than panic, as they indicate that the severity of the dominant virus strains continues to be low. The government remains vigilant and is continuously monitoring the situation to prevent any outbreak. Most reported cases are mild and show no unusual severity or mortality. Active COVID-19 cases in India have crossed 1,000, with Kerala leading the surge. Here’s a look at the state-wise tally.

Most active cases are found in a small set of states, with Kerala having 430 cases, Maharashtra having 209 cases, and Delhi having 104 cases being the top three in the seven days.

COVID-19 New Variants under Scanning

Two new sub-variants of COVID-19, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, have been found in India.

• NB.1.8.1 was detected in Tamil Nadu during April 2025.
• Four instances of LF.7 were reported in Gujarat in May 2025.
• These versions are not yet listed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as Variants of Concern (VOCs) but are presently designated as Variants Under Monitoring (VUMs).
• Specialists argue that the prevalent variant is still JN.1, which is responsible for 53% of the positive diagnoses.

Why is India Seeing a Mild Rise?

• Increased vigilance and testing help detect cases early.

• Widespread vaccination efforts have provided strong immunity.

• Health authorities have maintained robust COVID protocols.

• Seasonal factors and social gatherings occasionally cause minor spikes.

Despite this mild rise, India continues to follow safety guidelines and recommends booster vaccinations for high-risk groups, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.

COVID-19 Situation in Singapore

Singapore has recently experienced a significant increase in COVID-19 cases, with over 14,200 cases reported in the week ending May 3, 2025. This represents a 28% rise from the previous week. Daily hospitalisations have also increased by around 30%, although the number of patients requiring intensive care remains low.

Factors Contributing to the Surge in Singapore:

• Waning immunity: Many residents have not received booster shots in over a year.

• New variants: The LF.7 and NB.1.8 variants, descendants of the JN.1 Omicron subvariant, are spreading.

• Increased social activities and travel are expected following the easing of restrictions.

The Singapore Ministry of Health states that current vaccines still protect against severe illness and encourages all eligible individuals to get their booster doses promptly.

Understanding the COVID-19 Variants: What’s Behind the Surge?

New subvariants such as JN.1 and its descendants are driving recent case surges in Asia. These variants are part of the Omicron lineage and have been designated as “variants of interest” by the World Health Organization (WHO). While they spread more easily due to waning immunity and social factors, they are not known to cause more severe illness compared to earlier variants.

What Makes These Variants Different?

• Slightly enhanced transmissibility compared to previous Omicron strains.

• Some ability to evade immunity from past infection or vaccination.

• Current vaccines are adapted to target these variants, improving protection.

Government Advisory for Latest Situation

• Health authorities are keeping a close watch on the scenario through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and genomic surveillance initiatives such as INSACOG.
• State governments (such as Karnataka, Delhi) have released advisories for public health workers and citizens to be cautious.
  Cautionary measures such as practising hygiene, wearing masks in public gatherings, and getting tested early if symptoms occur are being highlighted.
• There is no new lockdown in the immediate future, nor general restrictions. Hospitals are on standby and ready for any increase.
  An annual booster dosage is advised, particularly for vulnerable groups (the elderly, people with comorbidities, frontline staff, those who are immunocompromised).
• Individuals with fever, cough, cold, or flu-like symptoms should isolate for approximately a week.

COVID-19 Cases in India Today: How to Stay Safe

As COVID-19 remains endemic, individuals in India and worldwide need to follow recommended safety measures:

• Get vaccinated and receive booster shots as advised.

• Maintain good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

• Avoid crowded places, especially if you belong to high-risk groups.

• Stay informed about local COVID updates from trusted sources.

The Indian government and health agencies continue to monitor the COVID situation, ready to respond swiftly if a new surge occurs.

COVID-19 Statistics Snapshot: India vs. Singapore